While NXT TakeOver events are often guaranteed to deliver, it was largely unknown whether NXT UK's first crack at a pay-per-view—TakeOver: Blackpool—would be successful.

The roster isn't as bombastic or popular quite yet, the setup for all the matches was recorded months in advance, with tapings going back to July, and many people aren't caught up or familiar with the storylines.

However, the NXT stamp means something, and WWE set the talent up with three title matches—including the crowning of the first-ever NXT UK tag team champions.

Now that it's over and done with, we can assess what was great on the show and what felt a bit more underwhelming.

The first mention must go to the fans. The crowd was red hot throughout the night. When was the last time a WWE pay-per-view started with the audience taking their shoes off to show how much disdain they had for a heel?

Setting a great standard to start the NXT UK tag team division off with a bang, Moustache Mountain and Grizzled Young Veterans had a fantastic opening match. This was no surprise, based on Trent Seven and Tyler Bate's previous fights.

Highlights of the bout included Bate spinning both Gibson and Drake at the same time, Bate's standing shooting star press onto Gibson and Drake to the floor and a near-fall after Drake's 450 splash.

For an indicator of the style and energy of this match, check out this suicide dive that took Bate out of the match, allowing Gibson and Drake to capitalize and win the titles.

The main event was a nail-biter. Even after 600 days as champion, it still felt like Pete Dunne's title reign was about to end at various points against Joe Coffey.

This was a knock-down, drag-out fight with both men brawling like their lives were on the line, which made it feel as though the United Kingdom Championship has equal footing to the WWE Championship in the eyes of these Superstars.

That in itself is a good sign for the brand's future in establishing itself as something more than just a developmental spin-off.

Ending with Dunne retaining was a feel-good moment, and the debut of Walter was an excellent way to end things. Staring each other down, the two men have already set up anticipation for a future clash.